Nope on the flash of the ECM. I bought the XM off Ebay at roughly 1/2 list price. Install is quite easy actually. For the module, you have to drill four 1/4" holes and one big 1 3/4" hole. Use a 6" bit for the 1/4" holes and you can find it from Lowes / HDepot for roughly $5. The big hole is a standard hole saw used for drilling a door for a door knob. At any rate, the MOST important thing to do is plan each step in advance and place the template exactly where you need it with LOTS of scotch tape. DRILL a pilot hole ( say 1/8") for each of the larger holes and for the largest, drill two pilots - first 1/8" then a 1/4". For the large hole saw, they usually have a 1/4" pilot bit anyway, so you're set. Use a short extension if needed, but it all depends on the drill you use. I don't recommend getting out the mammoth hammer drill for this, it's plastic and cuts very well. DO move ALL wire harnesses out of the way on the back side of thebox. (DUH!!!!) Drilling these are the most difficult step. Putting the module in is easy and DO right down the numbers you'll need before you put it in. Routing the antenna is actually very easy and I didn't have to take any of the major wiring harness apart. Just start at the windshield, place your "velcro sticker dot" and feed down the already-privded-hole near the right hinge area. Down next to the fuse box, then over to the console bridge wiring harness (big fat one) and secure with ties along the way. Once you've attached the antenna wire all the way to the back, you're next to the module. Just make sure it's not in the way of the seat (crushing issue there) and secure the nut correctly to the module. They provide a good description, but nothing is better than dry fitting loosely before mounting as practice. Lastly, call XM and they will take it from there!
Now, for the options..... I debated a long time about getting the XM module with the Garmin, or getting a smaller XM radio that can be moved around. I like the idea of the "movable" radio from vehicle to vehicle, but there is a huge issue with mounting and/or hard-wiringk, as the FM "transmitting types" ain't so good. Getting the module with the Gamin, is also an option and what I didn't like abou that is if the GPS should come up missing (as stolen), then now I have to get a new XM if they take the module too. Or, if I want to upgrade to a newer GPS such as the Zumo 660, then will the module be compatible and for how long in the future? I opted for the XM module that fits in the right saddle bag, because it's totally integrated, and only the antenna is exposed. Oh... wait... the whole bike is exposed... if they want to take it - they will.... I would suggest see all options first hand, so you can have the most info available and then make the decision that best fits your situation.
)) Now... cost is another issue and I can't help you with that one at all. I don't like it either, but you could look into the lifetime plan - they do have it and if you think the module will last that long it might be a good option
BEST of luck to you and ride safe
) Ride fast, but ride safe!!!
VVVet
